43-year-old Pranati Barik, has been suffering from heart disease for over a year. She was treated at a Bangalore hospital last year. An Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) was installed inside her chest, which stopped working after six months. So far, her family members have spent over Rs 25 lakh on her treatment, but they are unable to spend more because of financial constraints.
Dr. Pranati, who once worked at the remote village of Timanpur in Nuapada district for five years, had sought assistance and help from District Collector, Health Secretary and the Chief Minister, but in vain. She is now awaiting death at her father’s residence in Bhubaneswar. In her letter to CM Naveen Patnaik, Pranati has made an emotional appeal, saying “I want to live. I want to serve my people. Only you can save my life”.
Odisha-based Human Rights Activist Akhand recently met Pranati and then filed a petition with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Taking cognizance of the matter, the NHRC has issued notices to Secretary of Health & Family Welfare department, Odisha and Puri District Collector Mr. Aravinda Agarwal. The commission has asked the concerned authorities to submit a report on Pranati’s health conditions and treatment meted out to her within four weeks. Akhand has demanded immediate medical assistance for Pranati.
Name of the Victim – Dr. Pranati Barik, D/O – Shri Bauribandhu Barik.
Address – Plot No. 426, Baramunda Housing Colony, Khandagiri, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Direction issued by the NHRC: Transmit a copy of the complaint to the concerned authority calling for an action taken report within four weeks.